A POLICE and crime commissioner candidate for Gwent has proposed closing all police stations and moving staff into empty shops to save money.

Former policeman Chris Wright says police stations cost a huge amount of money and are not used as efficiently as they could be.

But rivals of Mr Wright called the idea "crazy" and "irresponsible".

According to former policeman Mr Wright's website police stations remain a focal point of the community but police officers only use them for between 60 and 90 minutes.

He said members of the public do not care which police station officers come from when they need officers to deal with crime or anti-social behaviour.

"The new plan, radical but eminently viable. Sell all the stations," he wrote.

He said that if a High Street has empty shops "let us put the police in one of them" – with beat officers going into town centres.

Others like response officers could go into a converted modern factory block on an industrial estate.

Mr Wright told the Argus: "Police stations in Gwent are very large and very expensive and very under used."

Nick Webb, Tory candidate for Gwent, said Mr Wright was right to acknowledge the tight budget the elected PCC will face but said the approach was "rather irresponsible".

Retired senior policeman Ian Johnston, a prospective independent candidate, said: "I think its absolutely and completly crazy. It's just not viable. Where do officers report for work? Where do
officers change into uniform for work?"

He said communities do have an "emotional pole" towards their police station, and any closures should be subject to full consultation.

Hamish Sandison, Labour candidate, said he wasn't in favour of Mr Wright's' proposals but was in favour of getting the best value from stations. He said he would want to consult with the public
before making decisions on them.

The Argus previously reported plans by Gwent Police to close most of the force's front desks by the end of June.

thank you so much for publishing my idea sregarding my plan on my website www.chris4gwentpcc.c
o.uk to put the police officer back into their community.

I invite your readers to visit my full response to this article and the comments made by the other candidates in this election on my web site.

But in brief the criticisms made by the other prospective candidates show they are either led by Westminster or Senedd politicians or they do not have a viable alternative to my plan to cut costs yet still increase the visibility of the officers in the community's of Gwent

As the above comment shows empty shops are not hard to come by!

Dear Mr Deans,
thank you so much for publishing my idea sregarding my plan on my website www.chris4gwentpcc.c
o.uk to put the police officer back into their community.
I invite your readers to visit my full response to this article and the comments made by the other candidates in this election on my web site.
But in brief the criticisms made by the other prospective candidates show they are either led by Westminster or Senedd politicians or they do not have a viable alternative to my plan to cut costs yet still increase the visibility of the officers in the community's of Gwent
As the above comment shows empty shops are not hard to come by!Chris 4 Gwent P&CC

police on housing estates only use police stations as a cafe , eat drink paper work and go . on the very rare accasion i have gone to these police stations . no one ever opens the door ,, but please use the phone provided . 95% use mobile phones so i could have saved myself a walk .

you no there in the building the cars are outside .haha when i were young lad you would always see a police person on the front desk.

police on housing estates only use police stations as a cafe , eat drink paper work and go . on the very rare accasion i have gone to these police stations . no one ever opens the door ,, but please use the phone provided . 95% use mobile phones so i could have saved myself a walk .
you no there in the building the cars are outside .haha when i were young lad you would always see a police person on the front desk.arjwain

I think it's an idea that deserves a go. It may create a better image of Newport to prospective shoppers. Instead of boarded up shops covers in posters and charity shops that seem to breed it may be a pleasant change. Also the Police actually having a presence where people can see may be an improvement. In my opinion it would be difficult to make Newport look worse so bring it on!

I think it's an idea that deserves a go. It may create a better image of Newport to prospective shoppers. Instead of boarded up shops covers in posters and charity shops that seem to breed it may be a pleasant change. Also the Police actually having a presence where people can see may be an improvement. In my opinion it would be difficult to make Newport look worse so bring it on!Rugby Warrior Paulo

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.Howie'

I was clearly under the impression that as a candidate for the new post of Commissioner, Mr Wright was advocating more bobbies on the beat. Now he wants to stick them behind shop windows like taylors dummies for passing shoppers to admire and feel safer in their communities. Maybe some cardboard cut-outs could be on display when the policeman has to venture out or called to an incident.

It is clear that the Chief Constable already has her programme of closures of existing stations and front desk access for the public. Don't think she would be persuaded to move them from stations to shops.

I was clearly under the impression that as a candidate for the new post of Commissioner, Mr Wright was advocating more bobbies on the beat. Now he wants to stick them behind shop windows like taylors dummies for passing shoppers to admire and feel safer in their communities. Maybe some cardboard cut-outs could be on display when the policeman has to venture out or called to an incident.
It is clear that the Chief Constable already has her programme of closures of existing stations and front desk access for the public. Don't think she would be persuaded to move them from stations to shops.Cwmderi

I will be putting and keeping officers on the beat. This article does not state that I will be putting Police officers behind the counters.

Gwent had a number of well trained and effective station enquiry officers and these will be returning to their posts to staff the new police stations.

As the Police and Crime Commissioner I can persuade the Chief Constable to alter the strategy that is currently closing police stations

Cwmderi,
please read my web site.
www.chris4gwentpcc.c
o.uk
I will be putting and keeping officers on the beat. This article does not state that I will be putting Police officers behind the counters.
Gwent had a number of well trained and effective station enquiry officers and these will be returning to their posts to staff the new police stations.
As the Police and Crime Commissioner I can persuade the Chief Constable to alter the strategy that is currently closing police stationsChris 4 Gwent P&CC

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.pensioner2012

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers
ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers
ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.

This is just another 'make do and mend' idea that will not work. What really needs to be done is to supply the police with buildings fit for purpose with facilities that match their role.
I agree their current buildings are expensive and under used for some roles. But some old tatty boarded up shop is not the answer.
Like any management task, look at what you need, when you need it and where, cost it and implement it. Fudging around will cost much more in the long run.

This is just another 'make do and mend' idea that will not work. What really needs to be done is to supply the police with buildings fit for purpose with facilities that match their role.
I agree their current buildings are expensive and under used for some roles. But some old tatty boarded up shop is not the answer.
Like any management task, look at what you need, when you need it and where, cost it and implement it. Fudging around will cost much more in the long run.Lastpost

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!

Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.

[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!
Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.Howie'

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers

ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?

Is that user name for real?

So he never answered Chris Wright's suggestion the way that YOU wanted.

And you wanted to be a Policeman, that's whats really frightening.

[quote][p][bold]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers
ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?[/p][/quote]Is that user name for real?
So he never answered Chris Wright's suggestion the way that YOU wanted.
And you wanted to be a Policeman, that's whats really frightening.Howie'

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers

ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?

Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. Gwent already have two major custody suites, Newport Central and Ystrad Mynach, and neither of these will ever figure in any plans to close or alter the location of police stations in Gwent. In fact Ystrad Mynach is Gwent's for over 90 years as part of a Private Financed Initiative. The Gwent's custody provision is almost 60 cells and they are now so under-used that the Assistant Chief Constable, as outlined in my blog http://chris4gwentpc
c.co.uk/gwent-police
-to-replace-15-cdos-
with-15-pcs-the-resu
lt-of-accs-meeting has used the opportunity to reduce the number of police staff members in these buildings and replace them with 15 full time police officers who can be utilised outside the building in the times when there are the lower numbers of detainees. As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector, and they assure me that when the cost of the conversion is compared to the sum to be gained by selling these out-of-town police stations then Gwent will have new, modern and effective town centre offices and a realistic sum of money in the bank to assist or maintain in the costs of their new stations for years to come

[quote][p][bold]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers
ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?[/p][/quote]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. Gwent already have two major custody suites, Newport Central and Ystrad Mynach, and neither of these will ever figure in any plans to close or alter the location of police stations in Gwent. In fact Ystrad Mynach is Gwent's for over 90 years as part of a Private Financed Initiative. The Gwent's custody provision is almost 60 cells and they are now so under-used that the Assistant Chief Constable, as outlined in my blog http://chris4gwentpc
c.co.uk/gwent-police
-to-replace-15-cdos-
with-15-pcs-the-resu
lt-of-accs-meeting has used the opportunity to reduce the number of police staff members in these buildings and replace them with 15 full time police officers who can be utilised outside the building in the times when there are the lower numbers of detainees. As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector, and they assure me that when the cost of the conversion is compared to the sum to be gained by selling these out-of-town police stations then Gwent will have new, modern and effective town centre offices and a realistic sum of money in the bank to assist or maintain in the costs of their new stations for years to comeChris 4 Gwent P&CC

Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?

Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.

Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. wrote:
Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?

Intelligent reply! from what I have read I have to agree. I shall be voting for Mr Christopher Wright. Independant

[quote][p][bold]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.[/bold] wrote:
Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?[/p][/quote]Intelligent reply! from what I have read I have to agree. I shall be voting for Mr Christopher Wright. Independantpensioner2012

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!

Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.

I think the raw nerve is more in your ball park!
You made quite an assumption on that one meeting then!
Had you even taken the time to read the website for Mr Christopher Wright you would know that the comments you have made make no sense to me or others I know who have read it.

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!
Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.[/p][/quote]I think the raw nerve is more in your ball park!
You made quite an assumption on that one meeting then!
Had you even taken the time to read the website for Mr Christopher Wright you would know that the comments you have made make no sense to me or others I know who have read it.pensioner2012

Lastpost wrote:
This is just another 'make do and mend' idea that will not work. What really needs to be done is to supply the police with buildings fit for purpose with facilities that match their role.
I agree their current buildings are expensive and under used for some roles. But some old tatty boarded up shop is not the answer.
Like any management task, look at what you need, when you need it and where, cost it and implement it. Fudging around will cost much more in the long run.

This is NOT 'another make and mend idea'.

It is a realistic plan, as stated, borne from history and real, relevant and recent experience of policing.

If you read my web site and the above quotes you will see that it is viable and supported to get Gwent police back into stations open for the public in the town centres.

[quote][p][bold]Lastpost[/bold] wrote:
This is just another 'make do and mend' idea that will not work. What really needs to be done is to supply the police with buildings fit for purpose with facilities that match their role.
I agree their current buildings are expensive and under used for some roles. But some old tatty boarded up shop is not the answer.
Like any management task, look at what you need, when you need it and where, cost it and implement it. Fudging around will cost much more in the long run.[/p][/quote]This is NOT 'another make and mend idea'.
It is a realistic plan, as stated, borne from history and real, relevant and recent experience of policing.
If you read my web site and the above quotes you will see that it is viable and supported to get Gwent police back into stations open for the public in the town centres.Chris 4 Gwent P&CC

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers

ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?

Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. Gwent already have two major custody suites, Newport Central and Ystrad Mynach, and neither of these will ever figure in any plans to close or alter the location of police stations in Gwent. In fact Ystrad Mynach is Gwent's for over 90 years as part of a Private Financed Initiative. The Gwent's custody provision is almost 60 cells and they are now so under-used that the Assistant Chief Constable, as outlined in my blog http://chris4gwentpc

c.co.uk/gwent-police

-to-replace-15-cdos-

with-15-pcs-the-resu

lt-of-accs-meeting has used the opportunity to reduce the number of police staff members in these buildings and replace them with 15 full time police officers who can be utilised outside the building in the times when there are the lower numbers of detainees. As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector, and they assure me that when the cost of the conversion is compared to the sum to be gained by selling these out-of-town police stations then Gwent will have new, modern and effective town centre offices and a realistic sum of money in the bank to assist or maintain in the costs of their new stations for years to come

"As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector"

Can I respectfully suggest Chris, that comment when you are proposing to possibly demolish a number of Police stations and do a lot of building work on former shops to convert them in to Police contact points is somewhat politically naive.

[quote][p][bold]Chris 4 Gwent P&CC[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]Howie are you for real? The best retort to Chris Wright’s suggestion that Ian Johnston can muster with all his years of experience in Policing is “Where will Officers report for work?” and “Where will they get changed into their uniforms?”
The nearest I ever came to being a Police Officer was as a school child wanting to be a Policeman, but the first question that I would and will be asking Chris Wright via his blog is Where does he intend to detain prisoners and the obvious supplementary at what construction/convers
ion costs? Frankly, that Mr. Johnston couldn’t instantly have done so on my behalf is not only frightening but laughable in a candidate for such an Office, and therefore along with the politicians seeking to politicise the Police, Ian Johnston will not be getting my vote I’m afraid?[/p][/quote]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. Gwent already have two major custody suites, Newport Central and Ystrad Mynach, and neither of these will ever figure in any plans to close or alter the location of police stations in Gwent. In fact Ystrad Mynach is Gwent's for over 90 years as part of a Private Financed Initiative. The Gwent's custody provision is almost 60 cells and they are now so under-used that the Assistant Chief Constable, as outlined in my blog http://chris4gwentpc
c.co.uk/gwent-police
-to-replace-15-cdos-
with-15-pcs-the-resu
lt-of-accs-meeting has used the opportunity to reduce the number of police staff members in these buildings and replace them with 15 full time police officers who can be utilised outside the building in the times when there are the lower numbers of detainees. As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector, and they assure me that when the cost of the conversion is compared to the sum to be gained by selling these out-of-town police stations then Gwent will have new, modern and effective town centre offices and a realistic sum of money in the bank to assist or maintain in the costs of their new stations for years to come[/p][/quote]"As to conversion costs I am, fortunately, close to a family member who has massive experience of building and conversions within the property sector"
Can I respectfully suggest Chris, that comment when you are proposing to possibly demolish a number of Police stations and do a lot of building work on former shops to convert them in to Police contact points is somewhat politically naive.Howie'

Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three. wrote:
Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?

Star Trek eh! Interesting.

If you are going to quote a sentence that I put in inverted commas then please use the whole sentence. I'm sure that you would not only use part of what I said to score a cheap point so I will restate what you misquoted because your abbreviations change the meaning of it!

"So he never answered Chris Wright's suggestion the way that YOU wanted". Puts an entirely different meaning to your comment.

[quote][p][bold]Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.[/bold] wrote:
Howie,
My User-Name comes indirectly from Star-Trek and as I see it has little to do with Policing and my observations of Mr. Johnston?
My having wanted to be a Policeman as a child is also irrelevant so perhaps the only relevant section of your reply concerning Mr. Ian Johnston was your admission that “he never answered Chris Wright’s suggestion”.
Perhaps Mr. Johnston should put up or shut up and stand aside for an Independent candidate to get elected to do the job properly?[/p][/quote]Star Trek eh! Interesting.
If you are going to quote a sentence that I put in inverted commas then please use the whole sentence. I'm sure that you would not only use part of what I said to score a cheap point so I will restate what you misquoted because your abbreviations change the meaning of it!
"So he never answered Chris Wright's suggestion the way that YOU wanted". Puts an entirely different meaning to your comment.Howie'

See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.

That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.

So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!

Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.

I think the raw nerve is more in your ball park!
You made quite an assumption on that one meeting then!
Had you even taken the time to read the website for Mr Christopher Wright you would know that the comments you have made make no sense to me or others I know who have read it.

Of course I have read his website, why on earth do you think I am voting for Ian Johnston?

[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]On the inside[/bold] wrote:
What more nonsense has this man got for us.[/p][/quote]See the Labour candidate sat on the fence on this as usual, 'I will consult with the public before making decisions on them' that translated means I will do what the Labour party tell me to do and stuff the public's wishes.
That's why I will be voting for Ian Johnston, someone who understands the needs of the public, knows the police inside out and most importantly is his own man and is not in hock to any of the political party's.
If the Labour candidate gets in then we will have a Police and crime commissioner who will carry out Labour policy rather than a policy that is best for the public.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious! Unfortunately I think Mr Johnston has been in his Ivory tower for too long.
If he has no solutions to put forward then why is he making a comment. He has no viable solutions to the problems the police are facing. From all that I have seen he is to busy looking after Mr Ian Johnston. Stating in this paper that he has political backing, but not offering anything to us the public to what he will do. At least Mr Christopher Wright has positive Ideas and is willing to let us the public see them. Someone offering alternatives to help us the public of Gwent.
Also from reading Mr Wrights web site it is not a simple as closing them all. Perhaps you should read it.[/p][/quote]So you are a close friend of Mr Ian Johnston then that's obvious!
Whats obvious with your response is that I have hit a nerve.
I met him once on official business many years ago (not sure if that qualifies me as a bosom buddy, lol) and can remember thinking he is a man of integrity, something which a couple of retired Police Officers have recently told me and from what others have told me about him. therefore he gets my vote, you on the other hand are free to vote for whoever you like.[/p][/quote]I think the raw nerve is more in your ball park!
You made quite an assumption on that one meeting then!
Had you even taken the time to read the website for Mr Christopher Wright you would know that the comments you have made make no sense to me or others I know who have read it.[/p][/quote]Of course I have read his website, why on earth do you think I am voting for Ian Johnston?Howie'

Then the fact that you made that snap decision on Mr Ian Johnston from one brief business meeting makes sense., you are not able to understand what's in front of you.
I think you doth protest to much Howie.

As for being "politically naive"
Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political. Again you have missed the point.

Then the fact that you made that snap decision on Mr Ian Johnston from one brief business meeting makes sense., you are not able to understand what's in front of you.
I think you doth protest to much Howie.
As for being "politically naive"
Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political. Again you have missed the point.pensioner2012

Wouldn't it be a good idea to have all the candidates on one central platform in a good old fashioned 'Hustings'.
Perhaps then, we could listen to each candidate and ask direct and open questions to them instead of carrying out a round robin of the same postings on this site, which has descended into a farce.
If they are up for it, let's see how they perform live and up front.
Could be a very enlightening experience for everyone and get us off our bums and laptops.
.

Wouldn't it be a good idea to have all the candidates on one central platform in a good old fashioned 'Hustings'.
Perhaps then, we could listen to each candidate and ask direct and open questions to them instead of carrying out a round robin of the same postings on this site, which has descended into a farce.
If they are up for it, let's see how they perform live and up front.
Could be a very enlightening experience for everyone and get us off our bums and laptops.
.Cwmderi

Cwmderi wrote:
Wouldn't it be a good idea to have all the candidates on one central platform in a good old fashioned 'Hustings'.
Perhaps then, we could listen to each candidate and ask direct and open questions to them instead of carrying out a round robin of the same postings on this site, which has descended into a farce.
If they are up for it, let's see how they perform live and up front.
Could be a very enlightening experience for everyone and get us off our bums and laptops.
.

I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country? What we need is substance, and to keep Party Politics out of Policing in Gwent. Therefore in my opinion a good old fashioned hustings is exactly what we need to bring out the best and worst in all the candidates, and failing that, to cast our votes for Chris Wright as he has already given us substance in his ideas and continues to update his communications with the electorate.

Have we seen or heard a word from the others?

Would we know who they were if we didn't seek them out for ourselves?

[quote][p][bold]Cwmderi[/bold] wrote:
Wouldn't it be a good idea to have all the candidates on one central platform in a good old fashioned 'Hustings'.
Perhaps then, we could listen to each candidate and ask direct and open questions to them instead of carrying out a round robin of the same postings on this site, which has descended into a farce.
If they are up for it, let's see how they perform live and up front.
Could be a very enlightening experience for everyone and get us off our bums and laptops.
.[/p][/quote]I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country? What we need is substance, and to keep Party Politics out of Policing in Gwent. Therefore in my opinion a good old fashioned hustings is exactly what we need to bring out the best and worst in all the candidates, and failing that, to cast our votes for Chris Wright as he has already given us substance in his ideas and continues to update his communications with the electorate.
Have we seen or heard a word from the others?
Would we know who they were if we didn't seek them out for ourselves?Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three.

pensioner2012 wrote:
Then the fact that you made that snap decision on Mr Ian Johnston from one brief business meeting makes sense., you are not able to understand what's in front of you.
I think you doth protest to much Howie.

As for being &quot;politically naive"
Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political. Again you have missed the point.

"Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political".

Do you not think that we need someone who is Politically astute to do what is essentially a Political job dealing a lot of the time with professional Politicians?

Howie, your at the bottom stop digging!

I may not agree with your opinions but I respect your right to express them, please show me the same courtesy.

[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
Then the fact that you made that snap decision on Mr Ian Johnston from one brief business meeting makes sense., you are not able to understand what's in front of you.
I think you doth protest to much Howie.
As for being "politically naive"
Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political. Again you have missed the point.[/p][/quote]"Mr Johnston is not the correct person for the post because he is highly political".
Do you not think that we need someone who is Politically astute to do what is essentially a Political job dealing a lot of the time with professional Politicians?
Howie, your at the bottom stop digging!
I may not agree with your opinions but I respect your right to express them, please show me the same courtesy.Howie'

This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,East Newport Dave

East Newport Dave wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

Well said, Dave.

You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').

The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.

I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.

[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,[/p][/quote]Well said, Dave.
You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').
The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.
I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.Howie'

East Newport Dave wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

Well said, Dave.

You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').

The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.

I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It

's a no-brainer.

Dear East Newport Dave,

I really think you need to re-read what you have posted then realise the complete lack of cognitive thinking in your submission. Why do you, and my opponents, do you just criticise without solutions. They are all looking for the public vote but at not time have they told the public what they intend to do with it.

If you want to talk about police station security not being able to be sustained in shops then if you worked in Chepstow, like I when they wanted to remove the station to a nearby less-expensive building, then you will have to admit that Tintern is a converted shop. Caldicot and Magor are both converted houses, Wilcrick is a converted shed. If you want I can move into Newport and then through into Caerphilly and start with the stations there that are either converted shops, houses or portacabin-like-buil
dings. So with all this lack of security so prevalent in Monmouthshire, Newport and Caerphilly how many times have these buildings been 'stormed' by that someone who intends to steal police protective equipment, confidential correspondence or evidential property. None.

You are critic of creative thinking and it is with that the police have been held back from reform and re-structuring until the position became so desperate, or untenable, that when the Government stepped in there were no creative thinkers left to try to resolve the policies of the police with the wishes of the community against the spending cuts unavoidably being forced upon the Chief Constable, the Police Authority and soon the Police and Crime Commissioner.

I am not looking back for problems … I am looking forward to solutions and it is this fact that separates me from the other candidates and makes me the right person for the vote of the electorate of Gwent

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,[/p][/quote]Well said, Dave.
You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').
The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.
I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.[/p][/quote]Dear East Newport Dave,
I really think you need to re-read what you have posted then realise the complete lack of cognitive thinking in your submission. Why do you, and my opponents, do you just criticise without solutions. They are all looking for the public vote but at not time have they told the public what they intend to do with it.
If you want to talk about police station security not being able to be sustained in shops then if you worked in Chepstow, like I when they wanted to remove the station to a nearby less-expensive building, then you will have to admit that Tintern is a converted shop. Caldicot and Magor are both converted houses, Wilcrick is a converted shed. If you want I can move into Newport and then through into Caerphilly and start with the stations there that are either converted shops, houses or portacabin-like-buil
dings. So with all this lack of security so prevalent in Monmouthshire, Newport and Caerphilly how many times have these buildings been 'stormed' by that someone who intends to steal police protective equipment, confidential correspondence or evidential property. None.
You are critic of creative thinking and it is with that the police have been held back from reform and re-structuring until the position became so desperate, or untenable, that when the Government stepped in there were no creative thinkers left to try to resolve the policies of the police with the wishes of the community against the spending cuts unavoidably being forced upon the Chief Constable, the Police Authority and soon the Police and Crime Commissioner.
I am not looking back for problems … I am looking forward to solutions and it is this fact that separates me from the other candidates and makes me the right person for the vote of the electorate of GwentChris 4 Gwent P&CC

East Newport Dave wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

Well said, Dave.

You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').

The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.

I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It

's a no-brainer.

Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.

Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.

From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!

He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police & Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.

As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “

As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.

Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.

He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!

As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?

To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done!

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,[/p][/quote]Well said, Dave.
You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').
The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.
I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.[/p][/quote]Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.
Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.
From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!
He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police & Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.
As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “
As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.
Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.
He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!
As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?
To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done!pensioner2012

East Newport Dave wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

Well said, Dave.

You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').

The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.

I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It

's a no-brainer.

Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.

Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.

From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!

He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police &amp; Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.

As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “

As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.

Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.

He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!

As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?

To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done!

'Its nice he has you both as friends'.....I do find it strange that as I have explained to you I do not personally know Ian Johnston that you continue in that vein, you on the other hand may or may not be associated with Christopher Wright but I care not if you are, after all I respect your choice as to the candidate that you will vote for and your opinions of those candidates.
The one thought I did have reading your post and Christopher Wright's post is how similar they both are in terms of language and punctuation but I would not be so brash as to accuse you of being the same person with a different username without any evidence.

I find it strange that you describe Ian Johnston in the terms that you do when a retired Chief Constable writes in such glowing terms about him.

[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,[/p][/quote]Well said, Dave.
You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').
The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.
I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.[/p][/quote]Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.
Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.
From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!
He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police & Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.
As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “
As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.
Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.
He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!
As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?
To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done![/p][/quote]'Its nice he has you both as friends'.....I do find it strange that as I have explained to you I do not personally know Ian Johnston that you continue in that vein, you on the other hand may or may not be associated with Christopher Wright but I care not if you are, after all I respect your choice as to the candidate that you will vote for and your opinions of those candidates.
The one thought I did have reading your post and Christopher Wright's post is how similar they both are in terms of language and punctuation but I would not be so brash as to accuse you of being the same person with a different username without any evidence.
I find it strange that you describe Ian Johnston in the terms that you do when a retired Chief Constable writes in such glowing terms about him.Howie'

As a retired policeman, I am entitled to express my views. Ian Johnston is a powerful character who will hold the Chief Constable to account. He sets very high standards for his staff. It was tough for us but through this we achieved excellent results.
He is the only man for the job.

As a retired policeman, I am entitled to express my views. Ian Johnston is a powerful character who will hold the Chief Constable to account. He sets very high standards for his staff. It was tough for us but through this we achieved excellent results.
He is the only man for the job.East Newport Dave

East Newport Dave wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,

Well said, Dave.

You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').

The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.

I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It

's a no-brainer.

Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.

Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.

From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!

He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police &amp; Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.

As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “

As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.

Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.

He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!

As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?

To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done!

'Its nice he has you both as friends'.....I do find it strange that as I have explained to you I do not personally know Ian Johnston that you continue in that vein, you on the other hand may or may not be associated with Christopher Wright but I care not if you are, after all I respect your choice as to the candidate that you will vote for and your opinions of those candidates.
The one thought I did have reading your post and Christopher Wright's post is how similar they both are in terms of language and punctuation but I would not be so brash as to accuse you of being the same person with a different username without any evidence.

I find it strange that you describe Ian Johnston in the terms that you do when a retired Chief Constable writes in such glowing terms about him.

Howie, I am insulted, your respect for me in pretty shallow then as it would seem you don’t believe I'm a person.
My description of Mr Johnston is not strange, it comes from someone I hold in high regard they do not like the man at all. You say he has an endorsement from an ex chief constable? I and thousands like me need to be even more concerned then. Have you seen the news recently, high ranking officers and it looks like a lot of them have been betraying and deceiving us for years. Not the best source of endorsement.... they all cover each others backs.

Lets have someone with no edge to him and someone who has no political party backing. We need change and Mr Christopher Wright I believe is that change we need.

You can vote for who you like.

Regards Janet Jones Caerphilly

[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]pensioner2012[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Howie'[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's calibre is in for this job. By nature, police stations need to have a high level of security. If they were moved to shop premises where would sensitive and confidential paperwork be stored. What about safe storage of appointments such as ASP, kwikcuffs, pepper spray be kept. What about breath test kits, personal radios, miscellaneous property (evidence), found property? Would they be kept in the shop window? In the event of public order problems, villains often make for the police station. This does not have to be a riot either. As a serving police officer based at Chepstow I can recall a Saturday night mob trying to storm the police station.
I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job. It does not require someone who is a politician but a comfortable board room operator who plays board room politics. Chris Wright will not be able to do this. Hamish Sanderson is a politician and would be able to cope one suspects. However, he has no policing experience and would be undermined by senior police officers due to lack of operational knowledge. I worked for Ian Johnson for years and no he is not a personal, or any kind of other, friend. It was a professional relationship. He was a brilliant detective and is a very clever man. He has had decades of managerial experience and his latter positions required him to communicate with high level officials on a local and national basis. He has an in depth understanding of the needs of Gwent Police. On voting day it's a no-brainer,[/p][/quote]Well said, Dave.
You make a number of good points about the idea of transforming empty shops into Police Stations, all the more pertinent because you are a serving Policeman and have an insight that we the Public could never have in to the pro's and cons of this policy by Chris Wright (or should I say just 'cons').
The points that you make about the candidates with the exception of Hamish Sanderson who would just be a Labour Party lackey are along the same lines that I have heard from a number of other people that have had dealings with both of them.
I think it is especially telling when a serving Police Officer says of Chris Wright 'This idea is a load of nonsense and it frightens me that someone of Wright's caliber is in for this job' and also 'I am afraid that Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job' very telling indeed and for me it confirms that my decision to vote for Ian Johnston is the right one. As you say, Dave..............It
's a no-brainer.[/p][/quote]Amongst the things wrong with your post East Newport Dave is its lack and integrity and it's support by Mr Johnston friend - Howie.
Mr Christopher Wright – The Independent Candidate for Gwent - has obviously said no to you in the past that screams out from your rantings otherwise you would not be so personally insulting.
From what I have read he shows a huge amount of intelligence in his thought process and quite honestly the best you can come up with is that “Chris Wright does not have the brain or the managerial pedigree to do this job” shame on you both!
He is the only candidate who has for months shown any true conviction and forward thinking and kept the residents of Gwent updated on a huge broad stream of subjects all relevant to the post of Police & Crime commissioner. I have taken the time to read a lot of what the other candidates are all saying or should I say lack of..... they offer no solutions to the problems ahead. They only spout rhetoric and spin like all politician do.
As for Mr Johnston, as Tertiary Adjunct 1of4 of Unimatrix Zero-Three posted earlier ... “I think that would be an excellent idea, especially as all you get on Ian Johnston’s webpage, (4 pages from 15 free provided by Moonfruit), is a list of commitments that could’ve been copied and pasted from any politically correct Police website in the country “
As for you both singing Mr Johnston's praises this is the bit that frightens me. Recently I have heard quite disturbing descriptions of him from influential people, one of whom holds a post as a councillor “A sheep in wolfs clothing” and “A man who is only interested in Mr Ian Johnston” He has you both fooled.
Its nice he has you both as friends but really what will he bring to us the residents of Gwent apart from the fact as he posted on twitter the other evening he's great at attending gala evenings.
He adds no gravitas to his policies or pledges, he is not the man for the job!
As for “serving police officer” I was talking to a young police officer recently and she was saying that they are not allowed to show any open support for any candidate so why are you? What do you stand to gain?
To finish..... from what you have said you will be voting for Mr Christopher Wright “it is a no-brainer” Well done![/p][/quote]'Its nice he has you both as friends'.....I do find it strange that as I have explained to you I do not personally know Ian Johnston that you continue in that vein, you on the other hand may or may not be associated with Christopher Wright but I care not if you are, after all I respect your choice as to the candidate that you will vote for and your opinions of those candidates.
The one thought I did have reading your post and Christopher Wright's post is how similar they both are in terms of language and punctuation but I would not be so brash as to accuse you of being the same person with a different username without any evidence.
I find it strange that you describe Ian Johnston in the terms that you do when a retired Chief Constable writes in such glowing terms about him.[/p][/quote]Howie, I am insulted, your respect for me in pretty shallow then as it would seem you don’t believe I'm a person.
My description of Mr Johnston is not strange, it comes from someone I hold in high regard they do not like the man at all. You say he has an endorsement from an ex chief constable? I and thousands like me need to be even more concerned then. Have you seen the news recently, high ranking officers and it looks like a lot of them have been betraying and deceiving us for years. Not the best source of endorsement.... they all cover each others backs.
Lets have someone with no edge to him and someone who has no political party backing. We need change and Mr Christopher Wright I believe is that change we need.
You can vote for who you like.
Regards Janet Jones Caerphillypensioner2012

East Newport Dave says...
6:56am Sun 7 Oct 12
As a retired policeman, I am entitled to express my views. Ian Johnston is a powerful character who will hold the Chief Constable to account. He sets very high standards for his staff. It was tough for us but through this we achieved excellent results.
He is the only man for the job.

East Newport Dave and Howie's your post was miss-leading then...it gave the indication you were still a serving officer.
As for holding a Chief Constable to account Those I have been speaking to in Caerphilly today say that Mr Christopher Wright has more than enough ability to hold the Chief Constable to account and if you READ his website he already has. Mr Johnstone may be worthy of your support and yes you are free to express that. For me he has political backing and I do not trust him to be an Independent as by his own submission in the press.... not the man for the Job

East Newport Dave says...
6:56am Sun 7 Oct 12
As a retired policeman, I am entitled to express my views. Ian Johnston is a powerful character who will hold the Chief Constable to account. He sets very high standards for his staff. It was tough for us but through this we achieved excellent results.
He is the only man for the job.
East Newport Dave and Howie's your post was miss-leading then...it gave the indication you were still a serving officer.
As for holding a Chief Constable to account Those I have been speaking to in Caerphilly today say that Mr Christopher Wright has more than enough ability to hold the Chief Constable to account and if you READ his website he already has. Mr Johnstone may be worthy of your support and yes you are free to express that. For me he has political backing and I do not trust him to be an Independent as by his own submission in the press.... not the man for the Jobpensioner2012

This "election" will be as farcical as any other in this area. The Labour placemen will "win" and will then answer to their political masters.
Turnout will be around 20 per cent, which is laughable.
One cannot pretend to have a mandate for anything on a turnout, lower than 50 per cent.
The old system worked well and there was accountability when the right people sat on the police committee and challenged those that needed challenging.

This "election" will be as farcical as any other in this area. The Labour placemen will "win" and will then answer to their political masters.
Turnout will be around 20 per cent, which is laughable.
One cannot pretend to have a mandate for anything on a turnout, lower than 50 per cent.
The old system worked well and there was accountability when the right people sat on the police committee and challenged those that needed challenging.james jackson

james jackson wrote:
This &quot;election" will be as farcical as any other in this area. The Labour placemen will "win" and will then answer to their political masters.
Turnout will be around 20 per cent, which is laughable.
One cannot pretend to have a mandate for anything on a turnout, lower than 50 per cent.
The old system worked well and there was accountability when the right people sat on the police committee and challenged those that needed challenging.

Exactly my view James, this is something that we did not need and do not want and is going to cost about £75m just to run the election and then a yearly salary of up to £100k.
As you say the old system worked well and there was accountability.

If we are to have a police commissioner though I hope it's Ian Johnston, because as we all know, James he is the best candidate by far!

Now wheres Janet? :-)

[quote][p][bold]james jackson[/bold] wrote:
This "election" will be as farcical as any other in this area. The Labour placemen will "win" and will then answer to their political masters.
Turnout will be around 20 per cent, which is laughable.
One cannot pretend to have a mandate for anything on a turnout, lower than 50 per cent.
The old system worked well and there was accountability when the right people sat on the police committee and challenged those that needed challenging.[/p][/quote]Exactly my view James, this is something that we did not need and do not want and is going to cost about £75m just to run the election and then a yearly salary of up to £100k.
As you say the old system worked well and there was accountability.
If we are to have a police commissioner though I hope it's Ian Johnston, because as we all know, James he is the best candidate by far!
Now wheres Janet? :-)Howie'

In terms of practical ability, Ian Johnston is by far the best option. From what I gather Chris Wright reached Sergeant rank and unfortunately he will not be equipped to operate several levels above that. It's not class or rank snobbery, it's reality. I don't know much about Hamish but he is a politician and will struggle without a local policing background.

In terms of practical ability, Ian Johnston is by far the best option. From what I gather Chris Wright reached Sergeant rank and unfortunately he will not be equipped to operate several levels above that. It's not class or rank snobbery, it's reality. I don't know much about Hamish but he is a politician and will struggle without a local policing background.East Newport Dave

East Newport Dave wrote:
In terms of practical ability, Ian Johnston is by far the best option. From what I gather Chris Wright reached Sergeant rank and unfortunately he will not be equipped to operate several levels above that. It's not class or rank snobbery, it's reality. I don't know much about Hamish but he is a politician and will struggle without a local policing background.

Is that all that Chris Wright achieved Dave, Sergeant (I don't mean that as a derogatory statement to other sergeants). I thought after Janet's comments about him he was at least an adviser to the Home Secretary. Methinks he will be out of his depth negotiating with anyone above receptionist level.

Best vote for Ian Johnston who at least has experience of dealing with people of all ranks and also politicians. Head and shoulders above the competition.

[quote][p][bold]East Newport Dave[/bold] wrote:
In terms of practical ability, Ian Johnston is by far the best option. From what I gather Chris Wright reached Sergeant rank and unfortunately he will not be equipped to operate several levels above that. It's not class or rank snobbery, it's reality. I don't know much about Hamish but he is a politician and will struggle without a local policing background.[/p][/quote]Is that all that Chris Wright achieved Dave, Sergeant (I don't mean that as a derogatory statement to other sergeants). I thought after Janet's comments about him he was at least an adviser to the Home Secretary. Methinks he will be out of his depth negotiating with anyone above receptionist level.
Best vote for Ian Johnston who at least has experience of dealing with people of all ranks and also politicians. Head and shoulders above the competition.Howie'